Special Education Paraeducator (2 Openings)

Young World Physical Education; Jefferson (IA); On-site; USD 20,664 - 27,552; Part time

Job summary

Young World Physical Education in Jefferson, Iowa, is hiring a Special Education Associate dedicated to supporting teachers and students. The role involves assisting in the implementation of IEP supports and responsibilities to create a positive learning environment.

The candidate must hold a High School diploma and be qualified under state guidelines. Responsibilities include managing student needs and collaborating closely with staff for effective classroom assistance. A commitment to professional development and crisis intervention training is essential.

Qualifications

• Must be able to assist with instructional reinforcement as directed by the teacher.
• Should be able to participate in Non-Violent Crisis Intervention training.
• Ability to read and interpret instructions and communicate effectively.

Responsibilities

• Assist teachers in promoting a positive learning environment.
• Supervise students in various settings, including buses and lunchrooms.
• Prepare instructional materials as needed.

Skills

Ability to work with students with special needs

Communication skills

Problem-solving strategies

Independence with minimal supervision

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Proof of being 'highly qualified'

Job description

Job Title

Special Education Associate, Greene County Elementary

Reports to

Building Principal

Compensation

Hourly, varies depending on education and certification.

Contract Length

Student contact days (approximately 180 days)

Summary

Assists and supports teachers and students through the implementation of IEP supports and services.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Reports to work as scheduled on a regular and reliable basis.
• Assists with group instructional reinforcement, following teacher’s direction as needed.
• Assists in providing feedback on student work.
• Assists teacher in promoting a positive learning environment and supports individualized behavior management programs.
• Assists teacher with implementation of specific instructional requirements as indicated in the individual education plans for each student.
• Assists teacher in supervision of students including, but not limited to, loading/unloading buses, lunchroom, playground, and individualized settings.
• Assists with preparation of instructional materials as needed.
• Assists teacher with gathering data for reports and paperwork related functions as needed.
• Operates school equipment such as Chromebooks, copiers, and communication devices.
• Assists students with personal hygiene needs such as dressing and toileting as needed.

Training Requirement

Staff must be able to participate in and pass Non‑Violent Crisis Intervention training, including procedures for preventing the use of physical restraint, de‑escalation of problematic behavior, relationship building, and use of alternatives to restraint, and to provide restraint only when there is an identified danger to self or others.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Varies by building.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience

• Required:
  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Proof of being "highly qualified" by one of the following:
    • Transcript from a post‑secondary institution proving two years completed.
    • A diploma from a post‑secondary institution.
    • Para‑Educator Certificate issued by the Board of Educational Examiners.
    • Successful completion of the NCRC‑National Career Readiness Test (can be taken in the School Business Office).
• Preferred: Experience working with young people in an educational setting.

Language Skills

Ability to read, write and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos. Ability to effectively present information in one‑on‑one and small group situations to staff, parents, students and administrators.

Mathematical Skills

Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals; ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.

Reasoning Ability

Ability to apply appropriate and reasonable problem‑solving strategies in a variety of settings and situations.

Other Skills and Abilities

Ability to work independently with minimal supervision; ability to work with all students; ability to maintain composure under stressful conditions; respect for the dignity of and sensitivity to all students; ability to communicate with students and staff; ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; ability to perform duties with awareness of all District requirements and Board of Education policies; demonstrates initiative and creativity with students and their programs; knowledge and experience with computer programs and software preferred; experience working with students with special needs on an instructional basis preferred.

Physical Demands

Regularly required to reach with hands and arms 0–24 inches and occasionally up to 36 inches; frequently required to stand, walk, sit, talk, and hear; occasionally required to use hands and fingers, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; push/pull, such as an occupied wheelchair, through crowded hallways or outdoors in unpredictable weather; bend at the neck more than average; lift or move up to 50 pounds up to 12 feet and occasionally up to 20 feet.

Work Environment

The work environment is primarily indoors with occasional outdoor duties in moderate to cold or hot temperatures. Noise level is usually moderate to loud. The employee will work with other staff, meeting multiple demands from several people, and is continuously responsible for the safety and well-being of students.

EEO Statement

This job description is compliant with the ADA and does not constitute an exhaustive list of duties performed by this position. Additional duties may be assigned.